Black Hole Update - September 2010

[Iceaxe]

I understand there is a new logjam in the Black Hole and there is currently a lot of swimming. Last weekend hikers were turning around but technical canyoneers were going through. Below is part of an email I recieved.

"The water level was really high - we probably had 6 or 7 swims before we even hit the black hole - and lots of wading. It was a little sketchy to even get down to where the log jam was. We ended up turning around. I didn't get a picture... I really wish I did!"

[CarpeyBiggs]

photos and more comprehensive report here -

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/canyons/message/57709

[dandyj]

I have done this trip three times. June of 2008, June of 2010 and September 2010. The log jams are back even though not as severe as 2003. There was at least 10x the amount of water as the other times I have done this canyon with a couple swims in the ball park of 10 minutes. The actual black hole section where you have the log that you have to squeeze through is not as long as a swim. The flash floods have deposited enough silt and sand in the bottom that you only swim for a few feet before you can walk the rest of the way. After this area is where the major swims begin and the log jams. The first log jam isn't too big of a deal. The second log jam has a wet section, dry section, wet section and then dry section. The second wet section is the most dangerous. The logs are floating on water. The water is deep enough that if you fall through you can't touch. The logs are thick enough that you can't swim. It is best to crawl and use a stick in your hands to help disperse your weight. It can be deceiving because for a little while you can actually walk on them before you break through. Plan for an extra hour or two if you are doing the canyon and make sure to go prepared. If a strong flood doesn't come through and remove the jams they will be larger in the spring.

[jman]

Holy log piles! Thanks for the pics!

[Pelon1]

I am glad the signs didn't get taken down

[Iceaxe]

I am glad the signs didn't get taken down

That was my first thought.....

Thanks for posting the pictures....

[Deathcricket]

Yeah great pics, wow....